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Kentucky State University alumnae and sisters, Sophia Rucker-Taylor ’09 and Renita Hudson ’08, will soon have books released. 

In Rucker-Taylor’s publication, Biblical Women Walking in Their Purpose, female contributors describe the women in the Bible that they try to emulate and "the role these women play in their lives and in the lives of the girls and women they hope to inspire to become." 

Rucker-Taylor, student ombudsperson at Kentucky State, says that, growing up, education was a requirement in her household.

“I had homework at home before I started school. I knew my ABCs, KSU was a HBCU, and multiplication tables at a very early age,” she shared. “I went to the school of “Ophelia and Linda Rucker” (granny and momma). I thank God for what they instilled in me.”

Hudson said that she passed down what she learned to her daughter and to the youth she meets.  

“Being raised in a single-parent home and being a first-generation college student pushed me to work harder. I want students to know no matter where they come from, be the best you. Sometimes they just need someone to listen, not judge, and show they care. I tell them, 'As long as you have God, goals, and a vision, you can do whatever you want if you put your mind to it.”

Hudson’s book, What Can I Be?, highlights the contributions of African Americans in society.

Hudson, a lead teacher in head start, described a feeling of exclusion in the educational system because of a lack of focus on achievements made by African Americans.

“I was constantly taught about all the great achievements that individuals that did not look like me made in society,” she shared. “It was very evident that we were slaves, but that was a small part of our existence. This sparked my curiosity and gave me the drive to learn more about who we were (are).”

Hudson decided to take control of her educational experience.

“I discovered a plethora of great artists, inventors, authors, scientists, ancient societies that were Black just like me. This made me want to be excellent, and boosted my self-esteem tremendously. I want to give every child this experience regardless of their ethnicity, social-economic status, disabilities, or background. I want everyone to find their personal freedom and do great things!”

Rucker-Taylor’s book can be ordered at www.opheliatosophia.com; ordering information is forthcoming for Hudson’s publication.